Millpu Turquoise Pools Day Trip from Ayacucho with Guide

Summary

Ayacucho Canyon Pools Hike & Waterfalls Experience

Join a guided day trip from Ayacucho to Millpu’s turquoise pools and waterfalls. Hike through quiet canyons, meet locals along the way, and cool off in crystal-clear water — all with pickup included and stories from your guide you’ll remember long after the trip.

What’s the experience like?

We met our driver, Julio, just after sunrise in Ayacucho — he handed us coca tea before we even got in the van. I was still half-asleep but the city was already waking up, women setting out fruit stalls and kids chasing each other past the plaza. The drive to Millpu took a couple of hours, winding through hills that kept changing color as the sun climbed higher. Julio pointed out tiny villages along the way and told us how his grandmother used to walk these same roads to trade potatoes. I tried repeating one of the Quechua words he taught me for “waterfall” — he laughed and said it sounded more like “potato,” which honestly felt about right for my language skills.

The first thing you notice at Millpu isn’t even the color — it’s this hush that settles over everyone when they see those turquoise pools stacked along the canyon. It’s not silence exactly; you still hear water trickling down rocks, someone’s shoes crunching on gravel, a kid giggling somewhere upstream. We followed our guide down a narrow path (watch your step — it gets slippery) and stopped where the light hit the water just right. I dipped my hand in expecting warmth but it was freezing, almost sharp against my skin. There’s something about seeing that blue up close that doesn’t quite fit with any photo you’ve seen online.

The walk to the waterfalls is only about half an hour but feels longer if you keep stopping to stare at everything — which we did, obviously. Our guide told us how locals believe these waters are good luck if you splash your face (I tried it; can’t say if it worked yet). We passed a few families picnicking on flat rocks, sharing bread and cheese, waving as we went by. The air smelled faintly of eucalyptus and dust, which I didn’t expect at all out here. By the time we reached the last waterfall I’d lost track of time completely — just standing there listening to water hit stone while someone nearby sang softly in Spanish. I still think about that moment sometimes when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Millpu Natural Pools and Waterfalls

• Enjoy cascading turquoise waterfalls at Millpu
• Walk to small waterfalls and Millpu waterfall

Top questions

How long does it take to get from Ayacucho to Millpu?

The drive from Ayacucho to Millpu usually takes around 2–3 hours each way by car or van.

Is swimming allowed in the Millpu pools?

Swimming is allowed in some areas but check with your guide as certain pools are protected or too cold for comfort.

What should I bring for a day trip to Millpu?

Bring sturdy shoes, sun protection, water, snacks, and a towel if you plan to swim or splash around.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?

The hike is moderate but includes uneven paths; young kids or those with mobility issues may find it challenging.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from Ayacucho in an air-conditioned vehicle with a local guide leading you through Millpu’s canyon trails and turquoise pools; specialized infant seats are available on request for families traveling together.